Signup for Affordable Care Act Raising Concerns

Signup for Affordable Care Act Raising Concerns

Talk about the affordable care act began in February 2009 and for the past several years it has been the subject of debate.

Talk about the affordable care act began in February 2009 and for the past several years it has been the subject of debate.

And finally, signup has begun across the country for mandatory coverage of non-insured people.

Rebecca Rutledge is a manager at Deli Planet. She says the small staff of eight employees exempts the business from providing healthcare coverage.

But personally, Rutledge says she and her husband are concerned.

"We're worried. We have eight kids, me and my husband and it is a family, big issue when it comes to the bottom line. I know I've gotta have more money coming out for health insurance but where is that money gonna come from now," Rutledge says.

Health insurance experts say for those who qualify, financial help is available for President Obama's Affordable Care Act.

And open enrollment started Tuesday. Health insurance experts say if you have coverage through Medicare, Medicaid or CHIPS you are okay.

However, if you are uninsured you need to select one of three plans-- gold, silver or bronze. But if you have coverage through your employer you can opt out from that private coverage and choose a plan provided by the healthcare act.

"Affordability. Nine and a half percent of your income for your premium only. Minimum essential benefits.. the 10 categories... ER, wellness, maternity, substance abuse and the minimum value. Actually it must cover at least 60% of the cost of your healthcare and be equivalent to the Bronze Plan in the exchange marketplace," says Kelly Fristoe of Financial Partners.

"It doesn't cost you anything extra to see out the advice of a health insurance agent to help you navigate and got through the application process., qualify for a subsidy and answer your questions," Fristoe explains.

Questions Rebecca Rutledge and other uninsured or underinsured Texomans will begin trying to find answers for on Tuesday.

Fristoe says earlier today the government had not provided the cost for the different plan. But as for help on healthcare plans, the federal government has used grant money to train agents who can also answer questions about affordable plans.

You can access that website to locate an agent in your area by clicking on the following link: